Ex-TV Cop Accused of Dogging After Sending Explicit Texts on Duty

A police constable and former acting sergeant, who gained recognition on the Channel 5 series 'Police Interceptors,' is facing serious misconduct allegations including engaging in sexual activity in public places after exchanging sexually explicit messages with a colleague while on duty. Ben Sutcliffe, who appeared in two seasons of the show between 2017 and 2018, left the Cleveland Police force amid accusations of sexual misconduct.

Sutcliffe is scheduled to appear before an accelerated misconduct hearing where he will confront the most serious charge: having sex with a fellow officer in public settings with the knowledge and intent that they might be observed. He is also accused of misleading his superiors when questioned about a relationship with the unnamed female officer.

According to Cleveland Police, Sutcliffe sent and received a significant volume of sexually explicit texts and images to the officer while on duty, which allegedly interfered with his job responsibilities. Furthermore, he is accused of disclosing confidential operational police information to the officer without a valid policing purpose.

It is also claimed that Sutcliffe failed to address the improper conduct of the female officer, specifically when she stated her intention to lie to the Professional Standards Department about their relationship and when she sent him explicit messages and photographs during work hours. The force has stated that these allegations, if proven, constitute gross misconduct and breaches of the Standards of Professional Behaviour relating to discreditable conduct.

Sutcliffe, who previously served as an advanced driver, public order instructor, armed response constable, and tactical team medic, was featured in seasons 13 and 14 of 'Police Interceptors.' The documentary series followed officers from the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit. Episodes showed Sutcliffe engaging with incidents such as confronting a speeding driver and pursuing a runaway vehicle.

Despite having left the force, Sutcliffe faces the possibility of being placed on the College of Policing Barred List, which would prevent him from returning to law enforcement if the allegations of gross misconduct are substantiated. His misconduct hearing is scheduled to commence on October 21 in Stockton-on-Tees.